A1: Any action that we take to unwind or simply distract ourselves can be a form of taking care of your mental health. This can be a simple act of jamming out to the latest Top 40 song on your way to work or grinding away at the gym after a hard day. #b4stage4chat

We discussed how pets and service animals can make a world of difference for individuals with chronic physical and #mentalhealth conditions, and how those without a pet/service animal can incorporate animal companions in their lives:

A4: Having a friend at work is one of the most important factors is job satisfaction. Nurture this relationship by grabbing coffee together, going for a walk at lunchtime or sending each other supportive emails. Don’t be afraid to take a #mentalhealth day! #b4stage4chathttps://t.co/6tgNfOrhdh

A4: Especially for people working in non-profit or “helping” sectors, it’s important to normalize helping yourself, not just others. There is a temptation sometimes to keep giving indefinitely, but your #MentalHealth matters too! #b4stage4chat

On how faith, religion, or spirituality contribute positively to #mentalhealth:

A5: In a study at a mental health facility:
➡️80% used religious beliefs/activities to cope with daily difficulties/frustrations
➡️65% reported religion helped to cope with symptom severity
➡️30% indicated religion gave them purpose to keep living
(6/7) #b4stage4chat

On racial discrimination and microaggressions. What can people do to protect their mental health if they encounter these challenges?

A6: Acknowledge that it's happening. This can help prevent internalization. Sometimes, microaggressions are so subtle that they go unnoticed and unchallenged, and eventually become accepted by oneself or by a community. #b4stage4chat

A6: 1st, understand that you are NOT alone in feeling put down upon. It is not in your mind. In many places it lives in the very air you breathe. Finding a community of trusted people to discuss the issues within also to strategize about how to make change is key #b4stage4chat

A6: Please realize that the problem isn’t you, but rather that specific individual who doesn’t realize their privilege and has sadly closed themselves to the wonders of this world that come from being openly diverse #b4stage4chat#diversitymatters

On what mental health professionals can do to remove this barrier in cross-cultural mental health care relationships:

A7: Invest! Invest in the research, the time, and your own self-development to be aware of cross-cultural mistrust. Develop an understanding of the trends that various cultures have towards mental health and tailor your services to target these mistrusts (1/3) #b4stage4chat

A7: As #mentalhealth professionals, we need to treat everyone with the same respect regardless of their background. Remember that everyone’s experience is unique, so it’s important not to overgeneralize or misinterpret personal experiences as being universal. #b4stage4chathttps://t.co/oOwbZ8dfY0

On how the use of social media can lead to isolation and exposure to cyberbullying. What are some of the ways that social media can be used as a tool to raise mental health awareness?

A8: I learn a lot from the work of @DrDesmondPatton, especially in how social media shapes the life of youth. We have to be intentional in how we use social media. This could be time allowances or strategic plans. It also could include disconnecting #b4stage4chat 1/2

A8: Social media can amplify messages and normalize them at an incredible rate. There are tons of mental health support groups across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. (1/2) #b4stage4chathttps://t.co/dO82HUJshi

A8: By doing twitter chats like this, following accounts that are related to #mentalhealth, continuing to support others who may be struggling on social media by providing resources or words of encouragement. #b4stage4chathttps://t.co/fatS79fo7t

On how technology is being used to support mental health and well-being. What are some examples of technology resources currently in use to help people deal with mental health crises and to maintain emotional balance?

A9: Text-based crisis counseling via @CrisisTextLine is a great technology resource. If you know young persons of color who are feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious, please let them know they can text STEVE to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.

A10: The Equity in Mental Health Framework provides colleges and universities with ten recommendations and implementation strategies to help inform and strengthen their mental health support and programs for students of color. https://t.co/mwHqs8jDAz#b4stage4chat

About The Steve Fund

The Steve Fund is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color. Right at this moment, there are students of color who are failing academically, suffering emotionally and/OR in some cases are facing serious risk, because population-specific factors influencing mental health are too poorly understood and not acted upon. We are taking action. Learn more.

Follow Us Online

Text STEVE to 741741

Are you a young person of color? Feeling down, stressed or overwhelmed? Text STEVE to 741741 and a live, trained Crisis Counselor will receive the text and respond to you quickly to provide support. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment. Share this resource and learn more.

For Immediate Release: June 2, 2020Contact: Courtney Holsworth, cholsworth@rabengroup.com, (989) 572-8162 The Steve Fund Launches Task Force to Address COVID-19’s Impact on the Mental Health of Young People of Color more »

Follow The Steve Fund Online

Our mission: Promoting the mental health and emotional well-being of students of color. Sign up for Updates